Parent power to fore in production

BLTC parents Philomena McIlroy, left, and Karly Smith, right, have been busy with other parents in creating a range of costumes that include this king fisher held by Ruby Robinson, the two headed lynx held by Georgia Winchester and the snow toad worn by Esme Heffernan.

Parent power is lending a big hand behind the scenes to ensure Big Little Theatre Company’s (BLTC) production of The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe is a stage spectacle to remember.
The show will bring the fantasy world of Narnia to life with eye-catching visual effects and clever acting.
The production is codirected by Georgie Sivier and Matt van den Yssel and is the company’s most demanding show to date.
It features puppets, elaborate costumes, large set pieces, stage combat and physical theatre.
‘‘When working with a youth theatre company there is one group of people that you simply cannot do without, those who work tirelessly to make sure that the young actors can do their absolute best,’’ Ms Sivier said.
‘‘Parents make the world go round and for this show it is very true.’’
An army of volunteer parents had been involved in helping to create and develop the elaborate show and BLTC was incredibly thankful, said Ms Sivier.
‘‘The giant puppets constructed by parents caused our actors to burst into rapturous applause when they first saw them.
‘‘The costumes have made them gasp.
‘‘They haven’t seen the set yet, but I can guarantee that they will be very impressed.’’
A gruelling schedule of cast rehearsals will be stepped up over the coming days.
Costumes, set and cutting edge technology will also be primed and tweaked ready for the opening night.
Three shows at Ashburton Trust Event Centre are scheduled for September 16-18.
Photo: BLTC parents Philomena McIlroy, left, and Karly Smith, right, have been busy with other parents in creating a range of costumes that include this kingfisher held by Ruby Robinson, the two headed lynx held by Georgia Winchester and the snow toad worn by Esme Heffernan.